The 2026 Grammy nominations are out, and African urban music is making waves like never before. The newly highlighted Best African Music Performance category, has thrown the global stage wide open for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African R&B, featuring top talent from across the continent, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and global influence of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African R&B.
Burna Boy
The “African Giant” himself, Burna Boy, scored a nod for Love. If anyone can mix Afro-fusion with global swagger, it’s him. This nomination isn’t just a trophy – it’s proof that Burna Boy is shaping what the world thinks African music should sound like. Fans, expect his streams and collabs to skyrocket even more.
Davido
Davido is in the mix too, with With You featuring Omah Lay. Known for making songs that get stuck in your head (and your playlist), this Grammy nod shows that Nigerian Afrobeats isn’t just a local sensation – it’s a global phenomenon. Who else can turn collaborations into chart magic like Davido?
Ayra Starr
Ayra Starr is making waves with Gimme Dat featuring Wizkid. She’s young, fierce, and proving that female voices in African urban music can dominate just as much as the big names. Her nomination says loud and clear: don’t sleep on the next generation – they’re already here, and they’re Grammy-ready!
Tyla
South African sensation Tyla hit the charts with PUSH 2 START and now she’s a Grammy nominee! Amapiano lovers, this one’s for you. Tyla’s recognition signals that South African sounds are going global – and yes, they’re here to stay.
Eddy Kenzo & Mehran Matin
East Africa isn’t left behind – Eddy Kenzo and Mehran Matin earned a nod for Hope & Love. Uganda’s finest are showing that African urban music isn’t just West or South; the whole continent is bringing heat, and the world is finally noticing.
Why These Nominations Matter
These Grammy nominations aren’t just names on a list. They are proof that African stars are finally getting the recognition they deserve. From Afrobeats to Amapiano, R&B, and soul, African artists are shaping global playlists, inspiring collaborations across continents, and showing the world the power of the continent’s sound.
Now, who do you think deserves the win, and which rising star do you think will be the next to get the recognition they deserve? Share your thoughts, let’s celebrate this moment, and keep the conversation going about African urban music taking its place on the world stage.
